Romans 9:14-18
14 What shall we say then? Is there injustice on God’s part? By no means! 15 For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” 16 So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy. 17 For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, “For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I might show my power in you, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” 18 So then he has mercy on whomever he wills, and he hardens whomever he wills.

God’s Righteousness Stands — Pastor Lonnie D. Bell, Jr.
Romans 9:14-18
Sermon Series: Romans (59th sermon)
June 13, 2021

Deep Sheet: Sermon Study Questions
1.   Why would Paul’s teaching in vv. 6-13 have raised questions about God’s righteousness in some people’s minds?
2.   What are some arguments against election that you have heard based on God’s “fairness”? How does this passage help you to respond?
3.   Why does Paul move the discussion from justice to mercy? How does this provide us with a better foundation for thinking about election?
4.   How does v. 16 make clear that election is unconditional?
5.   How does Pharaoh serve as an illustration? What is the role of God’s glory in Paul’s argument?
6.   What does it mean that God hardened Pharaoh’s heart?

References: Romans 9:3; 11:5, 7; 9:22, 23; Genesis 18:25; Psalm 71:19; Romans 3:5; Exodus 33:19; 9:16; 15:14-16; Joshua 2:9-10.